Early Years and Education: Rafati’s interest in football began at a young age. As a child, he was passionate about the sport, but rather than playing professionally, he chose the path of refereeing. His commitment to understanding the rules and nuances of the game laid the foundation for his future career.
Career Beginnings: Rafati started his refereeing career in the lower leagues of German football. His dedication and keen understanding of the game quickly set him apart. By the early 2000s, he had progressed through the ranks, earning a reputation for his fair and firm officiating style.
Professional Career:
- Major Leagues: Bundesliga, 2. Bundesliga
- International Experience: FIFA-listed referee
By 2005, Rafati had become a referee in the Bundesliga, Germany’s top football league. His career in the Bundesliga was marked by numerous high-profile matches, and he became well-respected within the football community for his clear and decisive refereeing.
Ups and Downs: Rafati’s career wasn’t without its challenges. In 2011, he made headlines for a tragic personal incident. On November 19, 2011, Rafati attempted suicide in his hotel room before officiating a Bundesliga match. The incident shocked the football world and brought attention to the pressures and mental health challenges faced by referees. Rafati survived and later spoke openly about his struggles with depression, helping to raise awareness about mental health issues in sports.
Recovery and Advocacy: Following his recovery, Rafati took a step back from refereeing and focused on his mental health. His experience became a powerful story of resilience and recovery. Rafati has since become an advocate for mental health awareness, particularly within the sports community, using his platform to support others facing similar challenges.
Real Name: Babak Rafati
Date of Birth: May 28, 1970
Birth Place: Hanover, West Germany
Residence: Hanover, Germany
Nationality: German-Iranian
Religion: Not publicly disclosed
Horoscope: Gemini
Profession: Football Referee
Partner: Not publicly disclosed
Father: Not publicly disclosed
Mother: Not publicly disclosed
Age: 54 (as of 2024)
Height: Approximately 1.85 meters (6 feet 1 inch)
Weight: Not publicly disclosed
Body Type: Athletic
Eye Color: Brown
Hair Color: Black (with some greying)